Genetics Lab Assistant

Utah State University; Logan (UT); Hybrid; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Utah State University in Logan seeks a part-time Genetics Lab Assistant to support ongoing lab research. This hourly role offers hybrid work within Utah and emphasizes meticulous work and reliability in a laboratory setting.

The successful candidate will assist with tissue preparation, DNA extraction, and PCR, following established protocols and keeping careful records to ensure lab operations run smoothly. Attention to detail and collaboration in a busy team are essential.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in tissue preparation for DNA extraction (not from coursework).
• Prior hands-on experience with DNA extraction techniques preferred.
• Experience performing PCR and working with molecular genetics protocols preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with core molecular genetics workflows including tissue preparation, DNA extraction, and PCR; follow established protocols and maintain accurate records; support overall efficiency of lab operations.

Skills

Tissue preparation

DNA extraction

PCR techniques

Job description

Genetics Lab Assistant

Requisition ID: 2026-10705

# of Openings: 1

Location: US-UT-Logan

Category: Research (non-Faculty)

Position Type: Non-benefited (hourly) Part-Time

Job Classification: Non-Benefited

College: Quinney College of Agric & Nat Res

Department: Wildland Resources

Advertised Salary: $17.00/hour

Overview

Dr. Julie Young is seeking a detail-oriented and reliable Genetics Lab Assistant to support ongoing laboratory research. This position is eligible for hybrid work within the state of Utah.

Responsibilities

This hourly position will assist with core molecular genetics workflows, including tissue preparation, DNA extraction, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The Lab Assistant will work in a collaborative laboratory environment and is expected to follow established protocols, maintain accurate records, and support the overall efficiency and integrity of laboratory operations.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in tissue preparation for DNA extraction obtained through prior employment or research positions (experience gained solely through coursework or classes does not qualify).

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior hands-on experience with DNA extraction techniques.
• Experience performing PCR and working with molecular genetics protocols.

Advertised Salary

$17.00/hour

ADA

This is a laboratory position. Employees work indoors and are protected from weather, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes. Employees will undergo initial training for each procedure and will eventually do work independently in the lab. This work can be tedious and repetitive at times and requires meticulous, focused attention to detail and the potential for DNA contamination of laboratory equipment, surfaces, and reagents. Employees must adhere to safety precautions and may be required to use protective equipment. The employee is regularly required to sit, stand, and walk, and often uses repetitive hand motions. The employee is frequently required to reach with hands and arms and may lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.

University Highlights

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah's premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State's 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.

Competing at the NCAA Division I level in 16 sports, USU is a proud member of the Pac-12 Conference, officially joining on July 1, 2026. The Aggies capped a historic final season in the Mountain West by capturing nine combined regular-season and tournament titles in 2025-26, with five teams advancing to postseason play. This tradition of excellence extends to the classroom, where 232 student-athletes earned academic honors, and to the community, where USU ranked second nationally in Division I service hours, with nine teams placing in the top 10 for community service.

Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported and where diversity of thought and culture are cultivated. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU.

*updated 07/2026

Notice of Non-discrimination

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU's non-discrimination policies:

Executive Director of the Office of Equity Matthew Pinner, [e-mail], Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266

Title IX Coordinator Matthew Pinner, [e-mail], Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266

Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, Ut 84322

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit https://equity.usu.edu/, or contact:

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800-421-3481, [e-mail]

U.S. Department of Education, Denver Regional Office, 303-844-5695, [e-mail]